Ergonomics: Difference between revisions

One of the most prevalent types of work-related injuries is musculoskeletal disorder. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) result in persistent pain, loss of functional capacity and work disability, but their initial diagnosis is difficult because they are mainly based on complaints of pain and other symptoms.<ref>{{Cite journal |doi = 10.1590/s0034-89102008000100014|pmid = 18200347|title = Clinical and functional aspects of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among active workers|journal = Revista de Saúde Pública|volume = 42|issue = 1|pages = 108–116|year = 2008|last1 = Walsh|first1 = Isabel A P.|last2 = Oishi|first2 = Jorge|last3 = Coury|first3 = Helenice J C Gil|doi-access = free}}</ref> Every year, 1.8&nbsp;million U.S. workers experience WRMDs and nearly 600,000 of the injuries are serious enough to cause workers to miss work.<ref>{{cite news | title=BEACON Biodynamics and Ergonomics Symposium | date=27 October 2000 | location=University of Connecticut, Farmington, Conn. | author = Charles N. Jeffress}}</ref> Certain jobs or work conditions cause a higher rate of worker complaints of undue strain, localized fatigue, discomfort, or pain that does not go away after overnight rest. These types of jobs are often those involving activities such as repetitive and forceful exertions; frequent, heavy, or overhead lifts; awkward work positions; or use of vibrating equipment.<ref name=NIOSH>{{cite web |url=http://www.buildings.com/articles/detail.aspx?contentID=1563 |title=Workplace Ergonomics: NIOSH Provides Steps to Minimize Musculoskeletal Disorders |year=2003 |access-date=2008-04-23 |archive-date=19 June 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080619070428/http://www.buildings.com/articles/detail.aspx?contentID=1563 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has found substantial evidence that ergonomics programs can cut workers' compensation costs, increase productivity and decrease employee turnover.<ref>{{cite book | title=BEACON Biodynamics and Ergonomics Symposium | date=27 October 2000 | locationpublisher=University of Connecticut, | publication-place=Farmington, Conn.Connecticut | author first= Charles N. | last=Jeffress}}</ref> Mitigation solutions can include both short term and long-term solutions. Short and long-term solutions involve awareness training, positioning of the body, furniture and equipment and ergonomic exercises. Sit-stand stations and computer accessories that provide soft surfaces for resting the palm as well as split keyboards are recommended. Additionally, resources within the HR department can be allocated to provide assessments to employees to ensure the above criteria are met.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ehscp.org/resources/Documents/Ergonomics/Final%20Version%2011-06-07.pdf|title=Ergonomic Guidelines for Common Job Functions Within The Telecommunication Industry}}</ref> Therefore, it is important to gather data to identify jobs or work conditions that are most problematic, using sources such as injury and illness logs, medical records, and job analyses.<ref name=NIOSH/>